Kidney Failure

Chronic kidney or renal failure (uremia) occurs when the kidneys gradually fail to function properly. When the kidneys are impaired, fluids and waste products accumulate in the body. In some cases, kidney failure may cause peripheral neuropathy.

Many conditions can cause kidney failure; the most common are diabetes and high blood pressure.

Since many organs and systems within the body are affected by kidney failure and fluid retention, kidney failure causes a general state of ill health. Also, many complications may occur, including uremic neuropathy—a type of peripheral neuropathy that progresses slowly and may afflict 20% to 50% of people with kidney disease.

Symptoms & Signs

(Not all symptoms and signs may be present.)

Symptoms of uremic neuropathy include:

Pain, numbness, and tingling in the feet and legs

Feeling of “pins and needles”

Cramps, muscle twitches, or increased pain sensation in the feet and legs